Part 12/14:
Marcus advocates for a life devoid of complaint, emphasizing that the only true misfortune is to fail morally. External adversities—illness, loss, hardship—are indifferent and should not disturb one’s tranquility if one maintains proper virtue.
The Ultimate Stoic Wisdom: Inner Freedom
The core Stoic insight is that freedom lies within—the mastery of passions, desires, and fears. Marcus's teachings underscore that true happiness depends on virtue, not external factors. Broadly, the Stoic attitude champions rational coherence, moral virtue, and acceptance, guiding individuals to live nobly regardless of external circumstances.